Operations Graduate
About the job
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across internal operational teams.
- Strong attention to detail, a proactive mindset, and a commitment to delivering work right first time.
- High level of adaptability and composure, with the ability to solve problems and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
- Outstanding time management and organisational skills under minimal supervision.
- Proficiency across information technology and programming.
- Ability and confidence to communicate effectively between stakeholders, departments, and clients.
- Flexibility and adaptability to travel on short notice for both long and short periods of time.
- Have used Microsoft Office tools such as Excel and Word or Google Suite.
- Have a degree, diploma, or qualification showing an ability to learn to a high level.
- A qualification in a STEM-related subject is preferred, including Geology, Metallurgy, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering.
- A United Kingdom driving licence is desired.
- A second language or the ability and desire to learn new languages.
- Follow a structured development pathway to build practical experience in operations, technical knowledge, commercial activities, and data analysis.
- Support and respond to enquiries from Client Services, the Head of Operations, Legal, the Technical Department, local offices, and other internal stakeholders.
- Investigate operational matters and respond to client complaints, legal queries, and requests for general operational advice.
- Contribute to longer-term projects.
- Support United Kingdom and overseas offices in sample preparation facilities, warehouses, ports, checkpoints, shipping yards, and other operational locations.
- Undertake frequent international travel to mines, ports, warehouses, refineries, smelters, processing plants, laboratories, vaults, and offices, potentially for periods of up to three months or longer and sometimes at short notice.
- Previous professional work experience or an internship in a commercial environment.
- A qualification in a STEM-related subject, including Geology, Metallurgy, Chemistry, or Chemical Engineering.
- A United Kingdom driving licence.
- Spanish, French, Portuguese, or Mandarin language capability.
About the company
Alfred H Knight Group provides inspection, analytical and technical consultancy services for metals, minerals, solid fuels and agricultural industries. Its product is a combination of on-site inspections and laboratory analysis delivered through a global network of inspectors and laboratories in over 45 countries to produce accurate, reliable results across the global value chain (including on-site and port locations). The company differentiates itself through its 140+ years of experience, deep industry focus, extensive global reach, and ongoing investment in people, facilities and services to maintain consistent service levels. Its goal is to deliver high-quality, dependable results and grow as a global entity by supporting clients with timely insights across the value chain.
Company Size
1,001-5,000
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Prescot, United Kingdom
Founded
1881
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Mozambique Maputo opened September 2026, capturing southern African export testing demand.
- Zambia Kitwe geochemistry lab expanded regional capacity for copper, cobalt, lithium analysis.
- Bhubaneswar lab and 2025 South America expansion broaden AHK's client reach and throughput.
What critics are saying
- June 2026 OECD complaints named AHK over PT AMNT and Elang Project.
- That case ties AHK to Indigenous land conflict, raising reputational and client-retention risk.
- Dependence on lab buildouts in Mozambique, Zambia, and Saudi Arabia creates execution risk.
What makes Alfred H Knight Group unique
- 1881-founded, family-owned AHK spans 3,000 staff worldwide and 26 India offices.
- 2024 GSL acquisition deepened mineral-processing consulting beyond inspection and analysis.
- 2026 Saudi Arabia partnership with Ajlan & Bros localizes advanced metals and minerals labs.
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Benefits
Life Insurance
Paid Vacation
Employee Discounts
Profit Sharing
Training Programs
Flexible Work Hours
Company News
AHK sharpens Zambia's edge in regional mineral analysis. Mineral samples from Zambia and across the region could increasingly stay closer to the mines they come from, with Alfred H Knight (AHK) expanding its analytical footprint through a new geochemistry laboratory in Kitwe. The facility strengthens Zambia's capacity to provide locally based mineral analysis for mining and exploration companies operating across the Copperbelt and other African markets, reducing the need to move samples across international borders for specialised testing. Located within AHK's existing Kitwe facility, the laboratory adds dedicated geochemical testing to the company's established inspection, sampling and analytical services in Zambia. For exploration companies advancing projects across Africa, overseas sample testing can add logistical complexity, handling requirements, costs and longer turnaround times, particularly where large sample volumes or remote operations are involved. The new laboratory brings a broader range of analytical capabilities closer to mining operations, including sample preparation, multi-element analysis by ICP-OES, precious metals analysis by fire assay, acid-soluble copper and cobalt analysis, sulphur and carbon analysis, specific gravity determination and lithium analysis. The Kitwe operation forms part of AHK's wider network of laboratories and technical operations across Africa, with the company positioning the facility as a regional geochemistry hub supporting projects across the mining lifecycle. "This is more than an expansion of our existing Zambia laboratory. It represents the development of a regional geochemistry infrastructure hub, strengthening our ISO/IEC 17025-accredited analytical capability and connecting it with a network of remote and client-specific sample preparation units across the continent. By integrating these mobile and decentralised prep facilities with a central, high-capacity geochemistry lab, we bring customised solutions closer to your operations, reduce logistics risk and turnaround time and provide Africa's mining industry with Africa-based capacity, expertise and long-term support," said Maxime François, Regional General Manager for AHK Africa and Middle East. The Head of Geochemistry for AHK - MEA, Toinette Viljoen, said the expansion was aimed at strengthening analytical capacity in line with the changing requirements of Africa's mining industry. "Our aim is to strengthen geochemistry capability across Africa in line with the growing and evolving needs of the continent's mining industry. By expanding our capabilities in Zambia, we can support clients throughout the mining lifecycle, from early-stage exploration to ongoing operations, with a broader range of analytical services, reduced sample movement and regionally based technical expertise," noted Viljoen. The investment comes as exploration and mining activity continues to generate demand for faster, accessible and specialised analytical services. By combining central laboratory capacity with decentralised sample preparation facilities, AHK is building a more locally integrated testing network designed to support mining operations closer to where samples are generated. 100000000 11 total views
AHK expands its analytical capabilities in Mozambique with new Maputo laboratory. 1 minute ago Last Updated: September 16, 2026 156 2 minutes read Independent testing and inspection company Alfred H Knight (AHK) has expanded its analytical capabilities in Mozambique by opening a new metals and minerals laboratory in Maputo. The investment comes at a time when demand for independent mineral testing is growing alongside Mozambique's developing mining and mineral-export sector. Historically, organisations operating in Mozambique have often relied on laboratories outside the country for specialist mineral testing, adding logistical complexity and potentially lengthening the time between sample collection and receipt of analytical results. AHK's new facility brings sample preparation and testing capabilities closer to mining operations and export hubs in the region. The local team will provide independent analytical services for key commodities, including iron ore, chrome ore and concentrate, ferrochrome, and manganese ore, supporting more efficient sampling and shorter turnaround times for clients in Mozambique and neighbouring markets. Commenting on the launch, Maxime François, Regional General Manager for Alfred H Knight: Africa & Middle East, said: "The opening of its Maputo laboratory is an important step in developing its operations in Mozambique. Mozambique is an important growth market for mining, and Maputo, Matola, and Beira are critical export corridors for Southern Africa. With this new laboratory, AHK is positioning high-quality analytical capability where its clients need it most, close to production sites and along the main export flows. "We are not simply adding capacity; we are investing in people, skills, and infrastructure that will strengthen our ability to support mining companies operating in and through Mozambique, as demand for independent analytical services continues to grow." The investment extends beyond the laboratory infrastructure itself. AHK is also developing its local technical team through training in sample preparation, analytical techniques, quality assurance, and laboratory management. This investment in people will support the continued development of specialist laboratory expertise within Mozambique, alongside the technical capability provided by the new facility. Reflecting on the launch, Hava Abdulrazak, Country Manager for Alfred H Knight Mozambique, said: "The opening of its Maputo laboratory is a proud moment for its team and for Mozambique. For years, organisations operating in the country have had to look beyond its borders for the technical testing they depend on. The new facility brings independent analytical capability closer to Mozambican industry. "We are particularly proud to be investing in our local people alongside the new facility. By combining Mozambican professionals with AHK's international technical expertise and quality systems, we can build specialist skills and provide the analytical services our clients need." Choose the [African Mining Market] as your preferred source on Google and never miss a moment on current mining and industrial news. The African Mining Market is a source of insightful information on mining & industrial markets, and developments in Africa. May 22, 2026 CPMZ launches major expansion of strategic Southern African fuel corridor. Mozambique pipeline expansion to strengthen fuel security across Southern Africa. Balama's production increase mirrors Mozambique's goals. Mozambique oil industry withdraws from london Africa energies summit. Balama mine delivers 26,000 tonnes of graphite in Q3 2025. Top reads.
Alfred H Knight opens testing laboratory in Bhubaneswar, India. East India's mining, mineral processing, and industrial sectors are important to the country's wider economy. This creates a strong demand for reliable, independent analytical data close to where materials are produced, processed, and traded. To support clients across this active market, Alfred H Knight (AHK) has opened a new metals and minerals testing laboratory in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. This new facility expands AHK India's regional footprint, bringing specialist testing and analytical expertise closer to clients and their operations. The laboratory combines local technical expertise and advanced instrumentation with the wider capabilities of the global AHK network. Expanding testing capabilities in East India. Bhubaneswar is well positioned to serve the region's mining and metallurgical sectors, with Odisha and its neighbouring states acting as hubs for production and processing. The facility provides comprehensive testing and analytical services across a range of commodities, including: * Ferroalloys * Base metals * Primary ores (including iron ore, bauxite, and manganese) * Bulk mineral concentrates * Coal and coke * Petcoke In addition to chemical and elemental analysis, the laboratory specialises in solid fuel testing. It is equipped with thermogravimetric analysers (TGA), enabling AHK's senior chemists to perform proximate analysis of coal and coke. For clients, having these capabilities closer to their operations means simplified logistics, faster turnaround times, and the independent data required to support commercial decisions. Its core services. The Bhubaneswar Laboratory forms part of AHK India's wider offering, giving clients access to specialist services covering material quality, quantity and independent verification. These include: * Inspection and Verification Services: Independent third-party inspection of materials, inventories, and industrial projects. * Chemical Testing and Physical Analysis: Laboratory testing to assess material grade, quality, composition, and characteristics. * Quantitative Assessment and Stock Verification: Drone technology and 3D modelling to assess stockpile volumes for inventory accounting, financial reporting, and auditing. * Outsourced Laboratory Services: Access to specialist laboratory infrastructure and technical expertise without the need to develop and maintain in-house facilities. Together, these capabilities allow AHK India to support clients with independent technical data and expertise across different stages of the supply chain. Strengthening AHK's presence in India. This launch builds on Alfred H Knight's long-standing presence in India and its ongoing commitment to independent testing, inspection, and technical services. AHK currently employs more than 1,100 people across 26 regional offices in India, with six of its seven Indian laboratories fully accredited to ISO/IEC 17025. AHK is also a member of the international Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC) Council. By extending this established network into Odisha, AHK is bringing its technical expertise closer to clients across East India. Find out how Alfred H Knight can support your testing and inspection requirements in India. Contact its team to discuss your specific needs.
TIC Merit Awards 2026: Mark Quillinan receives Advocacy Award. AHK Group is proud to share that Mark Quillinan, General Manager of Alfred H Knight China, has received the Advocacy Award at the highly anticipated TIC Merit Awards 2026. Presented on May 19th at the TIC Summit in Brussels, Belgium, this prestigious accolade from the TIC Merit Awards recognises outstanding contributions to effective policy engagement and the advancement of the Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) industry on a global scale. Recognising leadership at the TIC Merit Awards 2026. This recognition reflects Mark's individual dedication and AHK's shared commitment to promoting trust, safety, innovation, and sustainable growth. By advancing balanced policy dialogue and championing industry best practices, AHK Group continue to deliver trusted TIC services worldwide. As the Vice Chairman of the Working Committee of TIC China, Mark has made significant contributions to the industry. This includes drafting and introducing the Petroleum Inspection Safety Guidelines to China. His success at the TIC Merit Awards highlights the critical importance of this ongoing regulatory and safety work across international supply chains. Reflecting on the achievement, Mark Quillinan shared: "I am truly honoured to receive this recognition, and greatly value the collective efforts of my colleagues and industry partners within the global TIC community. I look forward to continuing our work together to support a trusted, responsible, and sustainable future for the industry." Advancing the global TIC community. As a full member of the TIC Council China, AHK is proud to support initiatives that reflect its global values of integrity, accountability, and sustainability. Its active participation in these networks ensures AHK Group remain at the forefront of industry developments, continually setting benchmarks for quality and reliability. AHK Group extend its sincere thanks to the TIC Council for this honour and for the continued collaboration that strengthens its sector across multiple regions and markets. Congratulations to all TIC Merit Awards recipients and nominees, continuing to pioneer a safer, more sustainable, and more trusted world.
Agricultural Expertise at Alfred H Knight: meet Vy Tran, Laboratory Manager. At Alfred H Knight, Agricultural Expertise underpins the independent services AHK Group deliver worldwide. Today, AHK Group is introducing Vy Tran, Laboratory Manager at AHK Vietnam, whose background in biotechnology and commitment to analytical precision help clients build confidence in the quality of their agricultural commodities. Building Agricultural Expertise: Vy's path into testing and inspection. Vy's career began with a strong academic foundation in biotechnology and a growing interest in the science behind food and agricultural quality. Her experience spans agrifood analysis, molecular biology and PCR testing, skills that support Agricultural Expertise across Vietnam's agricultural sector. "I've always wanted to understand what makes a product truly good," Vy explains. "Working in this field allows me to analyse essential commodities like rice and coffee, where quality affects both global trade and people's health." Alongside laboratory testing, Vy has developed sensory testing capabilities, adding a human dimension to the data-driven accuracy of analytical work. A day in the laboratory at AHK Vietnam. As Laboratory Manager, Vy's day centres on structure, traceability and collaboration. Each morning begins with sample receipt, instrument calibration, and internal checks to confirm everything is ready for analysis. She oversees laboratory workflows, reviews analytical reports and supports her team in both operational and quality processes. "Our work provides the essential quality parameters for commodities," she says. "We operate under strict ISO/IEC 17020 and 17025 standards to ensure every result is valid, traceable and reliable." This disciplined approach strengthens AHK's agricultural expertise by delivering consistent, independent and technically robust results. Challenges and trends in agricultural testing. Vy notes that agricultural testing is becoming increasingly complex as customer expectations rise. "Clients expect absolute confidence in every result," she says. "To meet those demands, we continually update our skills, adopt new technologies and stay aligned with international standards." She believes this evolution is critical for Vietnam, where high-quality agricultural production remains central to the country's global reputation. "Agriculture is the heart of Vietnam's trade. Ensuring quality supports both import and export markets and protects the value of Vietnamese commodities worldwide." Why Vy values working at Alfred H Knight. For Vy, the people and purpose behind the work are equally important. "What makes AHK special is the professionalism and support from my colleagues," she reflects. "It's a comfortable workspace with advanced technology and a multinational environment that encourages learning and growth." This focus on collaboration and continuous improvement aligns with AHK's mission to help clients maintain trust and transparency throughout their operations. Supporting a healthier community through Agricultural Expertise. Vy finds motivation in knowing that her work contributes beyond the laboratory. "Our analysis ensures that safe, high-quality agricultural products reach consumers," she explains. "That's how we support not just our clients, but the health and well-being of the wider community." Independent support from agricultural experts. Alfred H Knight provides independent inspection and analysis across the agricultural supply chain. From crop to shipment, its experts support producers and traders with reliable results grounded in technical expertise.